Philippians 4:10-20
No surprise - the word rejoice shows up in this passage. Paul is talking about the monetary gift that he received from the church in Philippi which also reminds him of their faithfulness in sending him financial support through out his ministry - sometimes they were the only ones to support him. The tone of this passage is peace (which ties to the previous verses), joy (which ties to the whole book) and contentment.
There is a book/movement out there called "The Secret" which basically says that the Universe responds to our desires and if we ask, believe, receive properly we will get whatever we want (oif course I'm simplifying their belief for the sake of brevity - I think I've captured the essence of it). Paul has a different take on the secret: instead of always wanting and demanding things of the universe or of God or of people, he's learned the secret of being content no matter what circumstances he finds himself in. This seems like a much better way to live - not tied to material things, not tied to unfulfilled desires but just peace and contentment no matter what the I have or don't have. Paul says that the secret to contenment is trusting the One who empowers us to do all things and aligning ourselves with His values, desires and goals for this world. He then reminds his audience that God will meet all our needs (not wants) in order to bring glory to himself.
Paul's desire has become: to our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. This desire will be met because it is also God's desire. I pray that my heart will be transformed from seeking glory and things for myself to desiring only and simply the glory of God. That's the secret of contemtment - as long as God is glorified, I will be happy (may that be true).
Showing posts with label contentment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label contentment. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Taking a shot at the prosperity gospel
1 Timothy 6:3-10
Paul draws a direct connection between false doctrines and the thought that godliness is a means to financial gain. Maybe my understanding of the prosperity gospel is faulty but I would think that this a direct shot at the heart of their teaching. Paul doesn't allow for any sort of "sow a seed" type talk here. This is somewhat timely since one of our "esteemed" media institutions here in town has recently had a complaint against it sent to the CRTC because they have been promising spiritual or financial reward if people would send them cash. The funny thing is that the complaint is coming from a pastor in Saskatchewan who sent them money basically as an investment strategy (sow a seed and you will reap the harvest) and when he didn't make a windfall off of God he complained to the CRTC. "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction."
I have been challenged recently to take a look at my life, especially in the area of financial waste and to try to simplify. Paul's statement in v. 8 is the heart of simplification: "But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." This is a matter of justice and stewardship. I can use my money to bring even a small measure of justice and equality to the world rather than just using it for selfish comforts. I think that's a better use of what God has given me. I wonder if it grieves the heart of God when he sees the wealthy church of North America not motivated to action on behalf of the "least of these" in their own backyards and around the world. I wonder what would happen if the wealthy church of North America would learn to be content with food and clothing (and I don't think Paul is saying to be content because they are designer labels or super cool clothes - I think he is saying to be content that you have something to wear) and used their excess to restore justice. I wonder what would happen if I had this heart...
Paul draws a direct connection between false doctrines and the thought that godliness is a means to financial gain. Maybe my understanding of the prosperity gospel is faulty but I would think that this a direct shot at the heart of their teaching. Paul doesn't allow for any sort of "sow a seed" type talk here. This is somewhat timely since one of our "esteemed" media institutions here in town has recently had a complaint against it sent to the CRTC because they have been promising spiritual or financial reward if people would send them cash. The funny thing is that the complaint is coming from a pastor in Saskatchewan who sent them money basically as an investment strategy (sow a seed and you will reap the harvest) and when he didn't make a windfall off of God he complained to the CRTC. "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction."
I have been challenged recently to take a look at my life, especially in the area of financial waste and to try to simplify. Paul's statement in v. 8 is the heart of simplification: "But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." This is a matter of justice and stewardship. I can use my money to bring even a small measure of justice and equality to the world rather than just using it for selfish comforts. I think that's a better use of what God has given me. I wonder if it grieves the heart of God when he sees the wealthy church of North America not motivated to action on behalf of the "least of these" in their own backyards and around the world. I wonder what would happen if the wealthy church of North America would learn to be content with food and clothing (and I don't think Paul is saying to be content because they are designer labels or super cool clothes - I think he is saying to be content that you have something to wear) and used their excess to restore justice. I wonder what would happen if I had this heart...
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